Main Entry: cour·age
Pronunciation: kr-ij, k-rij
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English corage "the heart as a source of feelings, spirit, confidence," from early French curage (same meaning), from coer "heart," from Latin cor "heart" --related to CORDIAL: strength of mind to carry on in spite of danger or difficultysynonymsCOURAGE, BRAVERY, VALOR, HEROISM mean greatness of spirit in facing danger or difficulty. COURAGE suggests strength in overcoming fear and carrying on against difficulties <the courage of the pioneers>. BRAVERY stresses bold and daring defiance of danger <the bravery shown by the firefighters>. VALOR applies especially to bravery in fighting a dangerous enemy <honored for valor in battle>. HEROISM suggests bravery and boldness in accepting risk or sacrifice for a noble or generous purpose <the heroism shown by many in the early struggle for women's rights>.